QNA / X
Berlin: Germany began Thursday a two-month reduction in energy tax on gasoline and diesel to curb soaring fuel prices driven by the Middle East war, including the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Fuel prices fell by about 17 euro cents per liter under the temporary measure.
Economy Minister Katherina Reiche urged oil companies to fully pass the tax cuts on gasoline and diesel to consumers.
The German Automobile Club said the measure took effect at midnight but was only partly reflected in early trading. By 8:00 a.m., Super E10 gasoline fell by 10.7 cents to 1.976 euros per liter, while diesel dropped by 10.4 cents to 2.063 euros.
The Bundesrat approved the measure on April 24, cutting energy tax by 14.04 cents per liter, equivalent to about 17 cents including value-added tax.
Authorities also limited fuel stations to one daily price increase at 12:00 noon, while allowing price reductions at any time, with fines of up to 100,000 euros for violations.
